404-527-8773
104 Marietta Street, NW, Atlanta, GA 30303
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 | DAY 1
Times, sessions, and speakers are subject to change.
Times, sessions, and speakers are subject to change.
|
7:00 - 9:00 AM
conference & exhibit hall setup
9:00 - 9:30 AM
Coffee & Conference Registration
9:30 - 9:40 AM
Welcome & Institute Kickoff
9:45 - 10:45 AM | opening plenary
Get Better on Purpose: Thriving and Courageous Decision-Making Paul Knowlton, Multidisciplinary Consultant, Stanton Law LLC, Atlanta, GA
10:50 - 11:50 AM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
What if your law practice supported your life instead of competing with it? Discover how to build and operate a successful virtual law firm that increases flexibility, streamlines operations, and improves work-life integration without sacrificing profitability or professionalism. Learn practical strategies for leveraging technology, optimizing workflows, reducing overhead, and creating a practice that allows you to focus on both your clients and what matters most. Whether you're launching a new firm or reimagining an existing one, this session will provide actionable insights to help you move from overwhelmed to optimized.
Most lawyer marketing sounds the same—and adding AI can make it sound even less human. Attorney and brand strategist Bianca Jordan shows lawyers how to flip the script by using AI to amplify, not replace, their authentic voice. Learn how to create client-focused content that sounds like you, connects with the people you want to serve, and avoids that unmistakable chatbot feel. Perfect for lawyers who have tried AI for marketing, hated the results, and assumed the em-dashes were the problem.
Discover how AI, automation, CRMs, e-signatures, intake, scheduling, and document management tools can transform an overwhelmed practice into a more efficient virtual firm. Learn practical ways to streamline workflows, improve client service, reduce administrative demands, and build smarter systems you can put to work immediately.
Discover how AI can help transform an overwhelmed practice into an Intelligent Firm. Through real-world examples, learn practical ways to streamline repetitive tasks, improve workflows, reduce administrative burden, and create more time for high-value legal work—without losing the personal client experience. 11:50 AM - 12:55 PM | lunch & exhibit hall crawl | sponsored by:
Lunch Sponsored by: [SPONSOR LOGO] 1:00 - 2:00 PM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
Learn how to build a more consistent pipeline of clients and referrals through intentional visibility, relationship-building, networking, and follow-up. This practical workshop helps lawyers understand how prospective clients choose counsel and how to turn authentic professional relationships into sustainable business opportunities.
From financial statements to KPIs, from compensation to budgets, learn what smart law firms are doing to optimize their firm finances. Let's take the chaos out of your cash flow and insert predictability into your financial statements.
AI is already changing family law practice—but using it effectively requires knowing where it helps, where it can fail, and where ethical responsibilities remain firmly with the lawyer. This practical session explores real-world AI workflows for discovery, financial records, deficiency letters, parenting plans, and more. Attendees will learn how to verify AI-generated work, protect confidentiality, maintain professional responsibility, and avoid common pitfalls. Participants will also receive practical resources, including an AI-use policy, engagement letter addendum, and verification checklist. 2:05 - 3:05 PM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
Strong policies and procedures can turn a chaotic practice into a more organized, efficient, and scalable firm. This practical session covers essential systems for client intake and conflicts, file management, deadlines and docket control, trust accounts, staff roles, and delegation. Attendees will identify gaps in their current processes and begin creating policies and procedures they can put to work in their firms right away.
What does it take to attract—and successfully represent—high-profile clients? Nationally recognized family lawyer Randy Kessler shares lessons from representing athletes, celebrities, executives, and public officials during complex family matters. Drawing from real-world experience, he’ll explore the unique expectations, relationships, pressures, and challenges that come with high-profile representation—and what lawyers can learn from serving clients when the stakes, personalities, and scrutiny are anything but ordinary.
Kerri-Ann Griggs
Partner Alston and Bird | Atlanta, GA Overview of major changes in immigration law under the new administration and what it means for employers, HR and talent acquisition managers.
Tiffany M. Simmons
Founder & Managing Partner Simmons Law, LLC/The Plugs Lawyer Brand | Atlanta, GA Being a great lawyer is only part of building a successful practice. Attorney, entrepreneur, and media personality Tiffany Simmons shares real-world strategies for building a recognizable brand, increasing visibility, attracting the right clients, and growing with intention. Drawing from her experience building a multimillion-dollar law firm and nationally recognized legal media platform, she’ll explore social media, AI, content, client experience, and modern marketing strategies lawyers can use to stand out—without sacrificing authenticity or professionalism. 3:05 - 3:15 PM | exhibit hall networking break | sponsored by:
3:20 - 4:20 PM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
Learn practical strategies for turning an idea into a sustainable business—even with limited resources. Explore starting lean, managing costs, building credibility, attracting clients, setting prices, managing risk, and creating a strong foundation for growth.
Stop guessing with your pricing! In this interactive 1-hour session, you'll create a strategic, profitable flat fee service list tailored to your firm's goals. Gain confidence and clarity as you design a pricing plan that aligns with your objectives, helping you streamline your services and boost profitability for long-term success.
Samuel J. Gowin
Founder & Managing Attorney Gowin Law | Ringgold, GA Real estate is usually the most valuable asset in an estate, and heirs often want to sell it quickly. Georgia probate law offers several useful, if tricky, ways to get that done. This session covers the certificate of year's support, the petition for no administration necessary, and the title standards governing the sale of estate property. It also addresses why families need a plan for long-held property — and the mess that heirs' property so often creates when they don't.
Holly Geerdes
Founding Attorney Estate Law Center USA | Alpharetta, GA Artificial Intelligence is changing the legal profession, but how can attorneys use it ethically and effectively? Through practical demonstrations and real-world examples, this session provides a clear framework for leveraging AI to improve drafting, research, client communication, and firm efficiency while maintaining professional responsibility and protecting client confidentiality. 4:25 - 5:25 PM | plenary
future of law--ethics Moderator: Nkoyo Effiong Lewis, Director, Law Practice Management, State Bar of Georgia, Atlanta, GA panelists: Andreea Morrison, Deputy General Counsel, State Bar of Georgia, Atlanta, GA
5:30 - 6:30 PM | take charge! networking open bar reception
presented by chef louie of serendipity | SPONSORED BY CLIO Unwind after a full day of learning and join us for the Take Charge! Networking Reception. Enjoy complimentary drinks, connect with fellow attorneys, speakers, exhibitors, and sponsors, and build valuable professional relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're exchanging ideas, exploring new opportunities, or simply catching up with colleagues, this is the perfect way to continue the conversation and expand your network.
|
CHOOSE YOUR TRACK
Our breakout sessions are organized into four tracks to help you focus on what matters most to your practice. 
LAUNCH
CONFERENCE ROOM A For lawyers starting, building, or strengthening a practice through better marketing, operations, risk management, and client development. 
LEVERAGE
ROOM 5 Designed for lawyers who want to streamline operations, boost profitability, and build a stronger, more successful practice. 
LEARN
ROOM 3 For lawyers seeking practical insights, substantive legal knowledge, and innovative strategies to better serve clients and grow their practices. 
LEAD
ROOM 1 For lawyers who want to lead through innovation, technology, business development, and strategic practice management. |
NETWORKING RECEPTIONpresented by Chef Louie of Serendipity
CONNECT • UNWIND • BUILD RELATIONSHIPS •
Vertical Divider
Wrap up the day with refreshments, conversation, and connections with fellow attendees, speakers, exhibitors and sponsors.
|
TIME 5:30 - 6:30 PM 
LOCATION CONFERENCE ROOM A FOYER State Bar of Georgia Conference Center |
Vertical Divider
CONNECTMeet and build relationships with solo and small lawyers from across Georgia.
|
MINGLEVisit with speakers, exhibitors, and conference sponsors.
|
UNWINDEnjoy refreshments after a full day of learning and networking.
|
|
NETWORKING RECEPTION
SPONSORED BY |
Vertical Divider
|
|
Thank you, Clio, for supporting the Take Charge! community.
FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 | DAY 2
9:00 - 9:50 AM
cONFERENCE REGISTRATION WITH COFFEE & bREAKFAST | sponsored by:
cONFERENCE REGISTRATION WITH COFFEE & bREAKFAST | sponsored by:
Start Day 2 by checking in, reconnecting with colleagues, and enjoying complimentary coffee and breakfast before a full day of educational sessions, networking, and insights designed to help you build a more efficient and successful practice. |
Auditorium |
9:50 - 10:00 AM
GREETINGS FROM THE STATE BAR
GREETINGS FROM THE STATE BAR
Hear a special welcome from State Bar of Georgia leadership as they kick off the conference with remarks on the legal profession, the conference theme, and the value of learning, connection, and innovation. |
Conference Room A |
10:00 - 11:00 AM | plenary
PROFESSIONALISM SESSION
MODERATOR:
KARLISE Y. GRIER; PROFESSIONALISM PANEL
PROFESSIONALISM SESSION
MODERATOR:
KARLISE Y. GRIER; PROFESSIONALISM PANEL
Professionalism is the foundation of a successful legal career. This plenary session will explore the values, behaviors, and ethical standards that promote excellence in the legal profession, strengthen relationships with clients and colleagues, and uphold public trust in the practice of law. |
Conference A |
11:00 - 11:25 AM | exhibit hall networking break | sponsored by:
Take a break between sessions to explore the Exhibit Hall, connect with sponsors and industry partners, discover innovative products and services, and network with fellow attendees while enjoying refreshments. Don't forget to pick up your Passport to Prizes, visit participating exhibitors to collect stamps, and enter the Fishbowl Drawing for a chance to win exciting prizes. |
Auditorium / Auditorium Foyer |
11:25 Am - 12:25 pM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
Select from one of the options below.
Brett Burney
E-Discovery Consultant Burney Consultants LLC | Chagrin Falls, OH |
Conference Room A |
Law firms of every size are now prime targets for cybercriminals. Unfortunately, solo practitioners and small firms are often the most vulnerable because they lack dedicated IT and security personnel. This session explains the current cybersecurity landscape in plain English and provides practical steps that legal professionals can take to reduce risk. Topics include phishing attacks, business email compromise, ransomware, password management, multi-factor authentication, cloud security, mobile device protection, vendor management, and incident response planning. The presentation will also discuss ethical obligations related to technology competence and safeguarding client information.
Cynthia Thomas
Founder PLMC & Associates | Thousand Oaks, CA |
Room 5 |
Many solo and small firm attorneys are drowning in work they didn’t go to law school to do — not because they lack clients, but because their firms were built to survive, not to scale. This session delivers the operational blueprint attorneys rarely get in law school or bar programming: how to build a support structure that grows with your practice instead of breaking under it. Attendees will leave with a clear framework for evaluating whether to hire, automate, or eliminate tasks; practical tools for integrating AI into daily workflows without sacrificing quality or compliance; a KPI model designed for small firm realities; and workflow strategies that free attorney time for billable, client-facing work. The result: a firm that runs more profitably — with or without you in the room for every task.
Sonia Lakhany
Founder Lakhany Law, PC | Atlanta, GA |
Room 3 |
Discover how AI, automation, CRMs, e-signatures, intake, scheduling, and document management tools can transform an overwhelmed practice into a more efficient virtual firm. Learn practical ways to streamline workflows, improve client service, reduce administrative demands, and build smarter systems you can put to work immediately.
John Yates
Managing Partner The Weems Firm | Atlanta, GA |
Room 1 |
AI is transforming how lawyers build relationships, attract clients, and grow their book of business. This session explores how attorneys can leverage AI-powered tools, agentic technologies, and chatbots to identify prospects, strengthen client relationships, and create more effective marketing strategies while maintaining ethical and professional standards. Learn how AI can serve as a business development coach, enhance existing marketing efforts, and help attorneys at every career stage generate meaningful opportunities and increase firm revenue through smarter, more efficient engagement.
12:30 - 1:30 PM | EXHIBITORS' FAREWELL & PRIZE DRAWINGS LUNCH | sponsored by clio
Join fellow attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors for a farewell lunch as we celebrate a successful conference and make final connections before departure. During lunch, we'll recognize our valued exhibitors and sponsors, conduct the Passport to Prizes and Fishbowl Drawing giveaways, and award exciting prizes generously donated by our conference partners. |
Auditorium / Auditorium Foyer |
|
EXHIBITORS' FAREWELL & PRIZE DRAWINGS LUNCH SPONSORED BY |
|
1:35 - 2:35 pM | breakout sessions (choose one)
Select from one of the options below.
Select from one of the options below.
|
LAUNCH
MARKETING READINESS: THE FOUNDATION MOST LAW FIRMS SKIP
|
|
Jason Wiggam
Founding Partner & State Bar of Georgia, Law Practice Management Program Chairperson Wiggam Law | Atlanta, GA |
Conference Room A |
Law firms waste enormous amounts of money on marketing every year — not because digital advertising doesn't work, but because the firm wasn't ready for it. Without the right operational foundation in place, leads go untracked, intake fails to convert, and no one can tell whether the marketing is working or not. The vendor gets paid either way. In this session, Jason Wiggam, founding partner of Wiggam Law, shares what he has learned building a firm where marketing investment is connected to real business outcomes — and what he wishes he had known earlier about the infrastructure that has to exist before any marketing spend can pay off. That infrastructure increasingly includes AI — not as a future consideration, but as an operational reality that forward-thinking firms are already deploying across content, intake, call handling, and client-facing touchpoints. This is not a session about which platforms to use or how to write ad copy. It is a session about the operational and systems decisions that determine whether a firm's marketing ever works at all — and why firms that ignore AI in that equation are already falling behind.
|
LEVERAGE
THE HIDDEN FRICTION TAX: OPERATIONAL INEFFICIENCIES THAT COST LAW FIRMS
MONEY, PEOPLE, AND CLIENTS |
|
Tricia Warren
Fractional COO & Operations Partner TLW Integrated Solutions, LLC | Alpharetta, GA |
Room 5 |
The Hidden Friction Tax is a one-hour CLE program that helps attorneys and law firm administrators identify the operational inefficiencies that quietly drain firm performance. Unlike generic practice management content, this course uses a structured diagnostic framework, the Friction Fix Framework™, to help practitioners identify what is costing them, quantify it, and begin fixing it. This course is about the processes, handoffs, and unwritten rules that govern how your firm operates, and what it costs when those systems have gaps.
|
LEARN
PROTECTING THE MODERN CLIENT: INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, NIL, AND
BRAND PROTECTION IN THE DIGITAL AGE |
|
Sunnita Blount
Founder & Managing Attorney Creative Esquiher, LLC | Atlanta, GA |
Room 3 |
As brands and digital personalities transform the business landscape, attorneys must understand the intersection of intellectual property, branding, NIL, social media, and AI. Gain practical insights to help clients protect their businesses, maximize leverage, and avoid costly legal pitfalls in an increasingly digital world.
|
LEAD
CENTERING THE INTELLIGENT FIRM: STRUCTURAL ALIGNMENT FOR
MIND, BODY, AND BUSINESS |
|
Candice McKinley
Managing Partner C. McKinley Law & Associates | Atlanta, GA |
Room 1 |
When we think of "The Intelligent Firm," we often focus on automating workflows, legal tech stacks, and AI integrations. But the most sophisticated system in your practice is YOU. For solo and small firm owners, the line between professional overwhelm and operational optimization is thin. This session bridges the gap between physical well-being, mindfulness, and law firm efficiency. Drawing on core Pilates principles—centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow—we will explore how intentional physical and mental alignment directly impacts your business’s bottom line. Attendees will leave with practical, micro-habits to manage stress, sharpen cognitive focus, and build a sustainable, optimized practice that resists burnout.
2:40 - 3:40 pM | plenary
60 tips, gadgets, sites in 60 minutes
60 tips, gadgets, sites in 60 minutes
One of the most popular sessions at Take Charge!, this fast-paced presentation showcases 60 practical tips, innovative gadgets, useful websites, apps, and technology tools that can help legal professionals work smarter and more efficiently. From productivity hacks and AI-powered resources to mobile tools, research websites, and practice management solutions, you'll discover ideas that can save time, improve client service, enhance organization, and streamline daily workflows. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or simply looking for ways to optimize your practice, you'll leave with a wealth of resources and actionable takeaways that can be implemented immediately. |
Conference Room A |
3:45 - 4:00 PM | CONFERENCE WRAP-UP
state bar of georgia, Law Practice Management Program
state bar of georgia, Law Practice Management Program
Join the Law Practice Management Program as we conclude the 2026 Take Charge! Conference. This closing session will highlight key takeaways, celebrate the connections and insights gained throughout the event, recognize our speakers, sponsors, and attendees, and provide resources to help you continue implementing what you've learned. Leave inspired, informed, and ready to take charge of your practice.
Join the Law Practice Management Program as we conclude the 2026 Take Charge! Conference. This closing session will highlight key takeaways, celebrate the connections and insights gained throughout the event, recognize our speakers, sponsors, and attendees, and provide resources to help you continue implementing what you've learned. Leave inspired, informed, and ready to take charge of your practice.
|
Follow us on
|
Official Conference Website
|
© 2026 | State Bar of Georgia | Terms of Use | Privacy & Cookies Policy.